Egg The egg stage involves the laying of eggs by the adult milkweed leaf beetle. These eggs are often deposited in clusters or laid individually, and are typically affixed to a host plant. The eggs are small, oval, and may vary in color depending on the species, exhibiting cryptic colors to avoid predation.
Larva During the larval stage, milkweed leaf beetle emerges as a grub-like larva, its primary function being to feed and grow. The larva undergoes several molts, increasing in size with each stage. Typically, the larva is worm-like in appearance, lacking wings, with a soft body that may exhibit bright warning colors or mimic its surroundings for defense.
Pupal In the pupal stage, milkweed leaf beetle undergoes transformation within a pupa, which is often attached to a leaf or concealed in the soil. The pupa acts as a protective casing as the insect rearranges its internal structures. During this stage, wings and adult features form, and the insect is typically immobile, with its color and shape camouflaged for protection.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult milkweed leaf beetle’s development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. Distinguished by its hardened exoskeleton, the adult often exhibits a stark change in color and pattern for mating displays. It is mobile, seeking food, a mate, and locations for egg-laying, completing the life cycle of milkweed leaf beetle.